I have just read a couple reviews of the parlee z5 that mention that it isn't necessarily the stiffest bike. I like sprinting and was wondering how much flex is in the parlee frame? My max power can sometimes go above 1400 watts (but regularly above 1200 watts) and my 10 second max power is around 1200 watts. I currently weigh 168, but my weight has fluctuated between 187 and 162 this past year (187 in january). Any issues with going to a less stiff frame in the parlee? I really like my sl3 for sprinting as it performs admirably in the sprints. In addition to sprinting, I like all other types of riding, too - climbing, descending, breakaway riding, crits, road races, etc.

As an all around frameset I'd still go the Parlee. It's not the stiffest frame in the world, but I've not noticed any softness at all in mine. In fact, I've noticed that it's plenty stiff. I'm 6'7" and 180 and can put out a decent amount of power and still there's no flex in the frame. I'd rate it around the same stiffness as the SL4 if not a tad stiffer. If you're used to something like a Venge, then it's not THAT stiff - but few things are!

Yeah, but you're a hard man MarkGiardini! I own all three of the bikes in question and as the best all around bike, I'd pick the Parlee. In fact, I do pick the Parlee more often than either of the others.

I'd pick the SL4, as I have a hard time believing the Parlee is any better. Having said this, just about all the current crop of bikes are good. I have an SL3 and its descending manners are beyond reproach. A very solid front end.

NealH: if you've not ridden a Parlee, then you really should. My Z5 SLi is better in all respects than my SL4. I'm surprised you say that your SLL3 front end handling is beyond reproach - that model was known for it's sketchy front end... and that was certainly my experience when I owned one.

Still, horses for courses. You're right - the vast majority of bikes at this level will satisfy most riders' needs.

Having ridden a Z5SLI I can say I love it .... I love my KUOTA KOM but the PARLEE was in another league.I would love to ride a STORCK and a CRUMPTON to see which is better again Specialized can't even get my shoes sorted out so would hate to see how they would go with a complete bike Coming up to December I want to get a new bike and keep the KOM for commuting

Mark does go hard , and the Venge is about the only bike to control his strength ... like a condom full of wallnuts

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